Health officials emphasize that vaccines are the most effective way to prevent serious illness, hospitalization, and death from flu, COVID-19, and RSV, especially for high-risk groups such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions.

North Carolina has reported its first flu-related death of the 2025-2026 season, involving an adult in western North Carolina, with the death occurring in early October, marking a somber start to the season.

Early testing and antiviral treatment are crucial for preventing severe illness, and recent standing orders now allow retail pharmacists to test and treat flu cases immediately, aiming to reduce the severity of the disease.

A new law enacted last week in North Carolina permits pharmacists to test and treat the flu without a prescription, improving access to care during the flu season.

Wake County is opening a walk-in flu vaccine clinic starting October 9 at the Wake County Public Health Center in Raleigh, operating every Thursday from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., to help build immunity before the holiday season.

Following updated CDC guidelines, North Carolina is also making COVID-19 vaccines more accessible by allowing individuals to receive the newest shots at pharmacies without a prescription, with the state Department of Health and Human Services canceling previous prescription requirements.

Despite the availability of COVID vaccines, some residents, like Kara Wood from Wilson, have chosen not to get vaccinated, citing personal choice.

Last flu season, North Carolina experienced a record 544 flu-related deaths since 2009, highlighting the importance of vaccination and preventive measures.

Recent data indicates a slight decrease in emergency department visits for respiratory illnesses in North Carolina, which is lower than the previous two active seasons, but health officials still stress the importance of vaccination.

Additional resources on vaccination, testing, and treatment are available through the North Carolina health department websites, encouraging residents to stay informed.

The first flu death of the 2025-26 season involved an adult in western North Carolina, with no further personal details released to protect privacy.

Residents will continue to be able to get COVID-19 vaccines at pharmacies without needing a prescription, maintaining easy access to protection against the virus.